Cashmere Care: How to Clean and Store Your Luxury Garments Properly

Master the art of preserving your premium knitwear with specialized techniques that maintain softness, shape, and longevity

Cashmere clothing adds luxury to any wardrobe, but many people feel nervous about caring for these special items. I’ve found that with the right techniques, you can clean and maintain your cashmere at home without damaging the delicate fibers. Using cool water and a gentle detergent specifically made for cashmere or wool is the safest way to wash your precious garments without causing shrinkage or damage.

Taking care of cashmere doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A simple hand wash in cool (not ice cold) water with a small amount of gentle cleanser works wonders. If you prefer to avoid harsh chemicals, baby shampoo without fragrances or moisturizers can be a good alternative. Just remember to soak your cashmere for no longer than 30 minutes to preserve the natural qualities of the fabric.

Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. When your cashmere is clean and completely dry, storing it properly will protect it from moths and prevent unwanted stretching. I’ll share my tested methods for both cleaning and storing that will help extend the life of your favorite cashmere pieces.

Key Takeaways

• Wash cashmere by hand in cool water with gentle detergent or baby shampoo for best results.
• Avoid soaking cashmere longer than 30 minutes and never wring or twist the fabric when wet.
• Store clean, completely dry cashmere items folded flat in a breathable container to maintain their shape and softness.

Understanding Cashmere

Cashmere is a premium natural fiber that requires special attention to maintain its luxurious quality. This exceptional material comes from specific goats and has distinctive properties that set it apart from regular wool.

The Origins and Quality of Cashmere

Cashmere comes from the fine undercoat of the Cashmere goat, primarily found in Mongolia, China, Iran, and the Himalayas. These goats develop this soft undercoat as protection against harsh winter temperatures, sometimes reaching -30°F.

True quality cashmere is measured by its fiber diameter, with finer fibers (14-15 microns) creating softer, more valuable garments. The longer the fiber, the more durable and less likely to pill the cashmere will be.

I’ve found that high-quality cashmere is incredibly lightweight yet provides exceptional warmth—about three times warmer than sheep’s wool. The best cashmere feels incredibly soft against the skin without any scratchiness.

The color of raw cashmere ranges from white to brown and gray, with white being the most valuable as it can be dyed any color.

Identifying Genuine Cashmere

Authentic cashmere has several telltale characteristics. When I examine cashmere garments, I look for these key indicators:

Touch test: Genuine cashmere feels incredibly soft but not slippery. It should have a subtle “bite” when rubbed between fingers.

Burn test: With a small sample thread, cashmere produces a faint burning hair smell and leaves a crushable ash, unlike synthetic fibers.

Price indicator: Quality cashmere is expensive due to limited supply and labor-intensive collection. Suspiciously cheap “cashmere” is likely blended or fake.

Label check: Look for specific information about cashmere content percentage and country of origin.

When stretched slightly, good cashmere bounces back to shape. I also check for even stitching and minimal pilling, which indicates higher quality fibers were used.

Basic Cashmere Care Guidelines

Proper care is essential for maintaining the luxurious feel and extending the life of your cashmere items. Following a few simple guidelines will keep your cashmere looking beautiful for years to come.

Reading Care Labels

Always check the care label on your cashmere garment before cleaning. Most labels will recommend dry cleaning, but many cashmere items can be safely hand-washed.

Look for specific instructions about water temperature, drying methods, and ironing recommendations. Some manufacturers may void warranties if you don’t follow their care instructions precisely.

I’ve found that even when the label says “dry clean only,” gentle hand washing is often safe. However, if your garment has special embellishments, structured elements, or is lined with non-cashmere fabric, professional cleaning is best.

Frequency of Cleaning

Cashmere doesn’t need to be washed after every wear. Over-washing can damage the delicate fibers and reduce the garment’s lifespan.

I recommend cleaning cashmere items every 3-5 wears, or when they begin to look soiled or develop odors. Between washes, air out your cashmere by hanging it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

For small spots, try spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap rather than washing the entire garment. This gentle approach preserves the fibers while keeping your cashmere fresh.

If you’ve worn your cashmere in areas with smoke or strong food odors, air it out overnight before storing it again.

Washing Cashmere At Home

Taking care of cashmere at home is simple when you know the right techniques. With proper washing methods, you can keep your cashmere items looking beautiful for years without spending money on dry cleaning.

Preparation for Washing

Before washing cashmere, check the garment for stains or spots that need pre-treatment. Turn the item inside out to protect the outer surface during washing. Remove any pills or fuzz with a cashmere comb or pill remover first.

Make sure you have a clean sink or basin large enough for the garment to move freely. Block off at least 30 minutes of time since cashmere shouldn’t be rushed through the cleaning process.

Check the care label for any specific instructions from the manufacturer. Some newer cashmere blends have special requirements.

I always make sure my hands are clean and jewelry-free to avoid snagging the delicate fibers.

Hand Washing Technique

Fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm water—never hot water as it can damage the fibers and cause shrinkage. The water should feel comfortable to your hand, not cold but not warm either.

Gently submerge your cashmere item and press it down to allow water to fully saturate the fabric. Avoid agitating, wringing, or twisting.

Let the garment soak for 10-15 minutes, but no longer than 30 minutes. Soaking too long can weaken the fibers.

Rinse thoroughly with clean, cool water until all soap is removed. Press—don’t wring—the water out gently.

Place the wet cashmere on a clean white towel, roll it up like a jelly roll, and press to remove excess water.

Using the Right Detergent

Choose a detergent specifically formulated for cashmere or wool. These contain gentle cleansers that won’t strip the natural oils from the fibers.

Baby shampoo works as an excellent alternative if you don’t have specialty detergent. It’s mild enough for the delicate fibers.

Add just a small amount—about a teaspoon—of detergent to your water. Too much can leave residue in the fibers.

Avoid these products when washing cashmere:

• Regular laundry detergents
• Fabric softeners
• Bleach products
• Spot removers not made for wool

I prefer no-rinse formulas like Eucalan or Soak that don’t require rinsing, saving time and reducing fiber manipulation.

Drying and De-Pilling Cashmere

Drying cashmere properly and managing pills are essential steps to maintain your garment’s luxurious feel and appearance. When done correctly, these practices extend the life of your cashmere and keep it looking its best.

Proper Drying Methods

Never wring or twist cashmere when wet as this damages the delicate fibers. Instead, I recommend gently pressing excess water out with a clean towel. Lay the garment flat on a dry towel, reshape it to its original dimensions, and allow it to air dry completely away from direct heat and sunlight.

Avoid hanging wet cashmere as this stretches the fabric. The weight of water pulls downward, distorting the shape permanently. For faster drying, I sometimes place a second towel on top and roll both towels with the garment inside to absorb moisture.

Always ensure your cashmere is completely dry before storing to prevent mildew and musty odors.

Removing Pills from Cashmere

Pills—those small balls of fiber that form on the surface—are normal with cashmere but can be managed effectively. I use a special cashmere comb to gently remove pills, working in one direction with light pressure.

For stubborn pills, a fabric shaver designed for delicates works well. Hold the fabric taut and move the device in small circular motions across the surface.

To avoid pilling in the first place, I minimize friction by not wearing cashmere with rough accessories or bags that rub against it. I also avoid overusing the same spots, like elbows and underarms, where friction is highest.

Regular de-pilling keeps your cashmere looking fresh. I recommend doing this after washing while the garment is dry but before storing it away.

Storing Cashmere

Proper storage is crucial for extending the life of your cashmere garments. When stored correctly, cashmere can maintain its softness and shape for many years.

Choosing the Right Storage Solution

I recommend using breathable storage options for cashmere. Knitwear bags work exceptionally well as they allow air circulation while keeping dust away. Avoid plastic bags completely – they trap moisture and can cause mildew or yellowing.

Before storing, fold your cashmere items neatly rather than hanging them. Hanging creates tension that stretches the fibers and distorts the shape over time.

Place acid-free tissue paper between folds to prevent creasing. Store items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken fibers.

For seasonal storage, clean your cashmere first – even invisible stains can attract moths. Make sure each piece is completely dry before storing to prevent mold growth.

Preventing Moth Damage

Moths love cashmere, so protection is essential. I use cedar blocks or lavender sachets as natural moth deterrents. Replace or refresh these every few months as their scent fades.

For extra protection, consider specialty moth traps that contain pheromones to attract and trap adult moths before they lay eggs.

Check your stored cashmere regularly for signs of moths – small holes or tiny white larvae. If you spot an infestation, immediately isolate affected items.

Vacuum storage bags can work but use caution. They must be completely sealed and the vacuum pressure shouldn’t compress delicate items too tightly.

Remember to air out your cashmere occasionally during long-term storage to maintain freshness.

Professional Care for Cashmere

While home care works for routine maintenance, sometimes professional handling is necessary for your precious cashmere items. Experts have specialized equipment and knowledge to treat stubborn stains and deep clean without compromising the fabric’s integrity.

When to Opt for Dry Cleaning

I recommend professional dry cleaning for cashmere in several specific situations. First, when dealing with tough stains that home treatments haven’t removed. Oil-based stains like makeup, cooking oils, or body oils often need professional intervention.

Seasonal cleanings are also important. I suggest a professional cleaning at the end of winter before storing your cashmere for the warmer months. This removes any invisible soils that might attract moths.

For vintage or inherited cashmere pieces, professional cleaning is safer than home washing. The same applies to heavily structured garments with linings or shoulder pads.

Always check the care label first. If it says “dry clean only,” follow those instructions to avoid damage.

Selecting a Dry Cleaner

Not all dry cleaners handle cashmere with the same expertise. I recommend finding a specialist who has experience with luxury fabrics. Ask these important questions before entrusting them with your cashmere:

• Do they have experience cleaning cashmere specifically?
• What cleaning method do they use for delicate woolens?
• Do they clean cashmere items separately from other garments?

A good dry cleaner will inspect garments before cleaning and discuss any concerns with you. They should use gentle solvents specifically for delicate fabrics rather than standard dry cleaning chemicals.

I always ask for minimal or no pressing, as too much heat can flatten cashmere’s natural loft. Some premium cleaners offer hand-finishing services that preserve the fabric’s texture.

Build a relationship with a cleaner who consistently delivers good results with your luxury items.

Cashmere Softness Preservation

Keeping your cashmere soft is all about gentle care. I’ve found that the way you wash and store these items makes a huge difference in how they feel over time.

When washing cashmere, I always use cool water and a specialized cashmere detergent or mild baby shampoo. Hot water can damage the fibers and reduce softness. I limit soaking time to 30 minutes maximum.

The rinse process is crucial for preserving softness. I rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap is gone. Soap residue can make cashmere feel stiff and scratchy.

Never wring or twist cashmere when wet! Instead, I gently press out excess water and lay the garment flat on a clean towel. Then I roll the towel up to remove moisture without stretching the fabric.

For storage, I fold rather than hang cashmere to prevent stretching. I place acid-free tissue paper between folds to maintain softness and shape.

Regular care actually improves cashmere over time. Unlike some fabrics that deteriorate with washing, cashmere gets softer with proper care. I’ve noticed my oldest pieces are often the softest!

I avoid fabric softeners completely – they coat fibers and can actually reduce natural softness. Instead, I add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the rinse water for extra softness without chemical residue.

Troubleshooting Common Cashmere Issues

Even with careful attention, cashmere garments sometimes develop problems that need special handling. Knowing how to address these issues can extend the life of your favorite pieces.

Addressing Shrinkage

If your cashmere has shrunk, don’t panic. I recommend soaking the garment in lukewarm water with a mild hair conditioner for about 10 minutes. This helps relax the fibers.

After soaking, gently stretch the fabric back to its original size while it’s still damp. Be careful not to pull too hard or you might damage the fibers.

Never use hot water when trying to reshape cashmere. Heat causes the fibers to contract further.

For severe shrinkage, you might need professional help. A skilled cleaner can sometimes restore a badly shrunk item using specialized techniques.

Prevention is best: always wash cashmere in cold water and avoid heat sources including hot dryers, radiators, and direct sunlight when drying.

Dealing with Stains

Act quickly when stains occur. The longer a stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove from cashmere.

For water-based stains (coffee, juice):

• Blot (don’t rub) with a clean, white cloth
• Apply cold water with a small amount of mild detergent
• Rinse thoroughly with cold water

For oil-based stains:

1. Sprinkle talcum powder or cornstarch on the spot
2. Let it sit for several hours to absorb the oil
3. Brush away gently, then spot-clean as needed

Avoid applying stain removers directly to cashmere. These harsh chemicals can damage delicate fibers and create discoloration.

For stubborn stains, I recommend consulting a professional cleaner who specializes in delicate materials rather than risking damage with aggressive treatment.

Conclusion

Taking proper care of your cashmere is an investment in both luxury and longevity. With the techniques I’ve shared, you can confidently maintain your favorite pieces at home, saving money on professional services while preserving the exceptional quality of these garments.

Remember these essential principles for cashmere care:

• Gentle hand washing with cool water and specialized detergent preserves cashmere’s natural softness and structure
• Proper drying techniques—laying flat, reshaping while damp, and keeping away from heat sources—prevent damage and distortion
• Regular de-pilling maintenance keeps your cashmere looking fresh and new
• Thoughtful storage in breathable containers with natural moth deterrents protects your investment between wearings

The extra care that cashmere requires is well worth the effort. When properly maintained, these luxurious garments can last for decades, growing softer and more comfortable with each gentle washing. The time you invest in proper cashmere care today will reward you with beautiful, wearable pieces for many seasons to come.

By following these guidelines, you’ll develop confidence in caring for your finest garments and the satisfaction of preserving their exceptional quality. Your cashmere collection will remain a treasured part of your wardrobe, providing both comfort and elegance throughout the years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Caring for cashmere properly involves specific washing, drying and storage techniques. These questions address the most common concerns people have about maintaining their cashmere garments.